Ripple effect: Transforming healthcare in South Africa

Penultimate weekend, the Discovery Foundation Awards brought together an extraordinary community of doctors, visionaries, and changemakers in a celebration not just of achievements but of aspirations. It was an evening inspired by the idea that even the smallest actions can have profound effects, or what’s known as the “Butterfly Effect.” With a deep focus on transforming healthcare, the event honoured leaders and innovators shaping the future of medicine in South Africa, an undertaking that feels more urgent than ever in today’s interconnected world.

As I walked into the room, I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Vincent Maphai, chairman of Discovery Foundation. We shared a moment of laughter, a gentle reminder of how far South Africa has come from the days of passbooks and restricted identities. When I introduced myself as “Awesome”— my actual surname — Dr. Maphai humorously confirmed his trust, reflecting, “Those days of needing passbooks are gone.” In that short exchange, I felt the weight of progress and the shared sense of pride for our country’s journey towards freedom and opportunity for all.

In his welcome address, Dr. Maphai articulated Discovery Foundation’s mission of creating “ripples of change” through academic medicine and research. He emphasised that healthcare progress isn’t just about individual achievements; it’s about building an ecosystem where discoveries can create sustainable and far-reaching impacts. The work of leaders like Dr. Nondumiso Dlamini, head of clinical department at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, exemplifies this theme. Dr. Dlamini’s groundbreaking research in breast cancer detection, which leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to catch signs earlier in women under 40, demonstrates the kind of life-saving potential that Discovery Foundation seeks to support. With the fellowship award she received, her work will continue to help thousands of women, marking a leap forward in digitising healthcare in South Africa.

The evening’s discussions left me reflecting on four key leadership lessons that resonate across sectors and serve as a call to action for all of us:

1. Empower others to create change

Dr. Maphai’s leadership, and by extension, the Discovery Foundation’s vision, embodies a profound truth: leadership isn’t about standing alone in achievement; it’s about lifting others to help them shine. By investing in academic medicine and research, the foundation is empowering doctors, researchers, and healthcare professionals to pursue innovative projects that can have wide-ranging impacts. Dr. Dlamini’s work is a prime example of this. Through her AI-driven breast cancer research, she isn’t just advancing her career; she is paving the way for a future where early detection is accessible to more women, especially those who are often underserved.

Call to action: As leaders, we should seek out ways to support and uplift others. Whether through mentorship, resources, or simply encouragement, empowering those around us creates a ripple effect of positive change that extends beyond our immediate sphere.

2. Be bold in addressing systemic challenges

The Discovery Foundation’s approach goes beyond quick fixes, focusing instead on addressing systemic issues within healthcare. By championing long-term investments in research and development, the foundation is targeting root causes that limit healthcare access and quality. Dr. Dlamini’s research on breast cancer detection, especially in young women who are often overlooked in traditional screening programmes, reflects a bold approach to an enduring challenge.

Call to action: True leadership requires a willingness to confront systemic problems with sustainable solutions. Whether in healthcare, business, or community work, leaders must aim to tackle the root of the problem, rather than offering temporary solutions that leave underlying issues unaddressed.

3. Leverage technology and innovation for public good

Dr. Dlamini’s pioneering use of machine learning in breast cancer detection stands as a testament to the power of technology to save lives. By integrating AI into early detection protocols, she is not only enhancing diagnostic accuracy but also extending this technology’s reach to areas that previously lacked access to advanced healthcare solutions. Her project aligns with Discovery Foundation’s vision to integrate technology in healthcare, bridging gaps that conventional approaches cannot.

Call to action: Innovation should serve the broader community, not just a select few. As we move forward in an era defined by rapid technological advancement, let us harness these tools to address social issues and bring solutions to underserved populations.

4. Foster resilience through collaboration and support

Throughout the evening, the sense of unity and mutual support among attendees was palpable. The Discovery Foundation Awards was not just a celebration; it was a reminder that collective resilience is built through collaboration. Leaders like Dr. Maphai and Dr. Dlamini remind us that even the most visionary projects need a supportive community to thrive. The fellowship award for Dr. Dlamini’s AI research isn’t just funding; it’s a statement that her community believes in her vision and is invested in her success.

Call to action: Cultivating resilience in our own teams and communities requires building a foundation of support and trust. Leaders must prioritise collaboration, knowing that shared goals are best achieved together, and that resilient communities amplify the impact of individual achievements.

For me, the night served as a reminder of our collective responsibility to drive positive change.

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